Step 1: To start

First measure your window, then gather the followingTools & Supplies- A piece of fabric large enough to cover the window (add an inch on the sides and top and 3 inches to the bottom for hemming)- Blinds- Scissors- Thread- Needle- Sewing machine- sharpie or marking pen of your choice- Ribbon (optional)- Hot glue gun

Step 2: Cut out your fabric

My window measured 30 inches by 54 inches. So after adding 1 inch on the sides and 3 inches to the bottom I ended up with a 32 by 58 piece of cloth.

Step 3: Hem your cloth

This is where you break out your sewing machine and sew a 1 inch hem on the top and sides, then a 2 inch hem on the bottom. Make sure you are exact here as a shade that is too narrow or short is very unsightly. If its a little long thats OK.

Step 4: Mark were you will attach the cloth to the blind

Take your sharpie and mark the cords that hold the blind slats every 7 inches (you can change this if you want larger or smaller folds).

(optional)If your blind is longer than your window you can tie up the extra so that it doesn't extend past your fabric.

Step 5: Attach the top

Break out your hot glue gun and attach the top of your cloth to the bar that hold the blinds up.Cut slits for the rod that adjusts the angle of the slats and the cord that raises and lowers the blinds.Using the thread and needle hand finish these slits to keep the fabric from fraying.

Step 6: Attach the fabric to the blinds chords

Hang your curtain up letting your blinds and fabric hang naturally. Find your marks and hand sew through the fabric and around the cord. Look at the picture for clarification.

great idea. I want to do something similar for grand baby's room but need to be able to clean the curtains. Any idea how to attack to just top of plastic blinds (thinking of making a valance) so that they can be washed?

Fantastic idea! I think I'll try machine stitching a button hole for the cords. The fabric cover is not only nicer looking but a thick fabric (or layers of fabric) can add insulation to the windows, lowering energy costs. So it's not only pretty, but practical.